Hortiforum

General Info – Blackcurrant, Black Currant, Cassis

Bearing abundant, delightfully flavourful berries, the Blackcurrant is a tangy and delightful addition to any temperate garden. Blackcurrant’s are notably rich in Vitamin C and have a unique, tart taste that has made them widely beloved. Thanks to their extensive natural range and cultivation, they are a beloved fruit in many cuisines. Blackcurrants can be transformed into an array of products, including cordials, juices, liqueurs, jams, jellies, and preserves, and are well-suited for baking.
Native to Northern Europe and Asia, the Blackcurrant thrives in cool temperate climates. Flourishing in fertile, slightly acidic, damp soils, they also tolerate heavy soils as long as proper drainage is ensured. With limited drought tolerance, mulching becomes crucial to preserve soil moisture and deter competition from grasses or weeds. Blackcurrants adapt well to both partially shaded and full sun positions, with partial shade recommended in hot summer climates and full sun in cooler summer conditions. Given their compact size (below 2m), these plants are also highly suitable for cultivation in containers and pots.
Blackcurrants develop a shrub-like structure similar to Blueberries, they require management of their cane-like growth, resembling Raspberries or Blackberries. Blackcurrants fruit on second year growth, requiring management during dormancy to remove growth which has already fruited and maintain first year growth which will fruit in the next season. First year and second year growth can be distinguished easily as second year growth is notably larger and darker. First year growth should be managed to maintain an outwards spreading form, with canes pruned to outward facing buds to ensure the centre of the bush is not overcrowded.
With its iconic, full-bodied flavour and vibrant colour, the Blackcurrant proves to be an easily cultivated and rewarding shrub for temperate gardeners.

Plant Profile/Properties